"(T)he time when international relations could be determined by two or a single superpower is over."

"In today's world, with several independent power centres, the attempts to isolate a major player or impose unilateral prescriptions based on this idea of US exceptionalism are destined to fail."

On the one hand, Washington professes to wanting cooperative bilateral relations. On the other, actions speak louder than words.

Anti-Russian policies persist. Including irresponsible Putin bashing. Considered public enemy number one.

Despite having done more than anyone along with Lavrov for world peace and stability. Big Lies claim otherwise. Repeated with disturbing regularity.

"(S)peaking to Russia in the language of force is pointless," Putin explains. "(T)here is much more to gain from cooperating with Russia," said Lavrov.

"(E)specially considering the consequences that discord between the nuclear superpowers can have for international security and strategic stability."

"(W)e are always open to constructive and honest dialogue with the United States both in bilateral affairs and on the world stage, where our two countries bear a special responsibility for international security and stability."

"The question is, when will Washington be prepared to cooperate on the basis of genuine equality and respect for Russia’s interests, which we are not going to compromise under any circumstances."

Asked about bilateral disarmament efforts, Lavrov said "(w)e should understand that there is no direct link between the implementation of bilateral treaties on arms control and the cooling down of Russian-American relations."

Doing so is in the interest of both countries. World peace at a time it hangs by a thread. Putin was clear and unequivocal saying Washington's efforts for global missile defense threatens Russian security.

World peace. Upsetting the strategic balance of forces, said Lavrov. At some point, Moscow will " to take adequate measures in order to ensure our own security."

"We have no intention of rushing into a costly arms race but we guarantee that we’ll make sure that our country has reliable defence capabilities."

Asked about Russian/NATO relations "down to the zero point if not below," Lavrov said they "can be described as the most serious crisis since the Cold War."

Containment reflects hostility. US-led NATO policy "augments its military potential and consistent increase of its military presence along the Russian border."

"The bloc has made a decision to suspend both civilian and military cooperation with Russia. These moves have certainly aggravated the tensions and undermined European stability."

Asked about US/Iranian relations, Lavrov said it's better to ask Washington about its intentions.

"We…have always advocated the normalisation of US-Iranian relations because the prolonged crisis is harming both countries’ interests."

Asked about sanctions harming both sides, Lavrov said Russian/EU relations deteriorated to "where goodwill gestures don’t lead to the necessary result."

"(T)he current situation is a consequence of the policy Brussels had been pursuing towards Ukraine, in particular, supporting the coup d’état and armed power grab by ultra-nationalists."

"We have stated repeatedly that attempts to speak to Russia in the language of ultimatums are absolutely unacceptable and futile," said Lavrov.

"Our response to those actions was balanced. It took into consideration Russia’s rights and commitments under international agreements, including as part of the WTO."

"We are not going to discuss any criteria for lifting the sanctions. They should be lifted by those who imposed them."

"Of course, if the EU demonstrates common sense, we will be ready for constructive cooperation on this issue."

"As President Vladimir Putin emphasised, even as some governments are trying to build almost an iron curtain around Russia, we will continue to actively expand cooperation, promote business and cultural contacts, as well as scientific, educational and cultural ties."